Question

Can someone explain in the clearest way possible how to solve this problem and also does it involve using sin cos tan formulas?

Answer 1

9514 1404 393

Answer:

  480 ft

Step-by-step explanation:

The geometry involves two similar triangles. The ruler at arms length forms a triangle that has the opposite side 3 inches high and 24 inches (2 ft) away. That is, the distance from the eye to the ruler is 8 times the height of the ruler.

The triangle involving the lighthouse is similar. That is, the angles in it are the same, so the sides are proportional to those in the smaller (ruler) triangle. The distance to the lighthouse will be 8 times the height of the lighthouse, just as the distance to the ruler is 8 times the height of the ruler.

  8 × 60 ft = 480 ft

The lighthouse is 480 feet away.